We noticed that on the stage there was no mic, stool, or guitar stand set up. So..we all thought sadly.. No Kasim opener. We continued to socialize, browsed merchandise and eventually made our way to our seats. We soon discovered that in the mean time.. there was a mic, stool, and guitar stand set up!! We would be seeing Kasim open!

A local DJ gave Kasim a wonderful introduction with mention of his career and background in the music business. He mentioned his work with Todd Rundgren and Utopia as well as others. Also..he mentioned "Quid Pro Quo" and it immediately seemed to get the audience's attention. David Driskell and I noticed that as we both were scanning the crowd just to see.

Kasim came out to very warm applause and took the stage! He began by again introducing himself and saying how: "Some nights Meat Loaf just looks at me and says.. Hey Kas..how bout opening tonight?" You can tell he really appreciates the times he gets to share his music. He also took time to mention that he had a cd for sale called "Quid Pro Quo" To this..David strategically yelled "It's worth every dime!!" loud enough for everyone (Kasim included) to hear! This brought a smile to Kasim's face and he looked our way and gave a warm "Thanks!" That was truly a great moment!

His voice was very strong and clear this night! The sound at this venue was really excellent. You could hear the blend of the acoustic guitar and his voice perfectly. The audience was immediately entranced. The set was short but really got the audience into the mood of the evening. He left the stage to loud and very appreciative applause. I wish he could have done more songs..but I was thrilled that I was able to see his opening set on this tour! Thanks Kasim!! Awesome performance!!

I had been to a show in Atlantic City a couple of weeks prior to this show. I have to say that the energy level and audience at this show was something I'd never seen! From the moment the Wasted Youth speech started..the audience was on their feet and never sat down! The vibes from Meat, the band, and the audience could be felt throughout the entire show.

Meat's voice was really strong tonight. There were a couple of rough spots, but I would say for 95 - 98% of the show..he was strong and clear with all the notes high and low. The band was exceptionally tight and it was obvious they were enjoying this show. You could see them joking and interacting with each other and there was rarely a moment where any of them didn't have a smile on!

Meat took time to share that it was Cleveland that first played "Bat Out Of Hell" and went on to mention many if not all the names of those involved including.. Jim Steinman, Kasim, Todd Rundgren, Willie Wilcox, Roy Bittan.and others. The others I was with who have been to more shows than I said that he'd never done that.

A few highlights for me were that Meat really got taken away by the audience singing "Took The Words". I think he usually makes a point to pick out someone to bash a bit..but the singing was so strong tonight. He just stopped and he and the band all applauded the audience. Something else a bit new for me was that during "Two Outta Three"..Meat actually sang the high part where he usually stops to let the audience sing! He didn't miss a beat there. He didn't forget the band intros this time..but forgot Kasim!!! Jules, Terry, David and myself we all pointing and yelling.."Hey..you forgot Kasim!" Also.. there was a spotlight kind of flashing on him to let Meat know. He realized what happened and of course went on to give Kasim a wonderful intro. All the intros for each member were extremely complimentary and he went on to say "This is the best Rock N Roll band in the business today" which invoked a loud applause from the audience.

Kasim with Randy Flowers

One of the best and funniest moments of the show came during Paradise. Meat and Patti were of course into the usual theatrics. This tour they are doing sort of a spin on "Grease" with leather jackets and Patti in a curly blonde wig. At one point Meat looks down toward his pants to act as if he's gotten "excited" so to speak. Well.Just at that moment.. The fireworks from "Jacob's Field" behind us went off. It could not have been timed more perfectly than if Meat had asked them to shoot them off then. The look on his face was priceless. He got his usual devilish grin and said "Well..someone from the Cleveland Indians just hit a home run!!" To which Patti replied " And so will You!" Great improv on both their parts!! Meat even ended up putting on the wig, which made Patti laugh so hard. He looked ridiculous!! But he loves to go for the laughs.

Overall the energy and vibes during this whole show were so strong. I again have to credit Kasim for the work he does directing this band!! Also..the new additions really have given a whole new depth and tightness to the band. They all come from such diverse backgrounds and musical styles and it makes for such great compliments to each other. I was amazed by this entire show. I've seen a couple of mixed reviews, but for me.. I was glad I made the trip. Not only for getting to meet some great new friends..but to experience what I think..will probably be known as one of the best and strongest shows of the tour. My many Thanks to Meat and the NLE again for such a wonderful night of memories!

Many thanks to Gina Martin for all the photos on this page.

Click here for more photos by Gina Martin of this concert.